How to Use a Library Card Catalog in Elementary School

Students can find books easily by using a card catalog.

Knowing how to properly use all aspects of a library is important for a student throughout his education career, and elementary school students are not too young to take part in everything a library has to offer. While elementary school card catalogs are the same as those found in most other libraries, these young pupils may need some pointers, as it might be the first time they are working with a card catalog.

Instructions

1. Identify where the card catalogs are located in the library. They should be designated by a sign, or a librarian can point you in the right direction.

2. Determine whether the card catalog is alphabetized by author or title. Most catalogs will have options for both, particularly in an elementary school, where the aim is to make it as easy a process as possible.

3. Find the catalog box for the letter of the title or author you're looking for and open up that box.

4. Determine if the card catalog in your library has sections divided by subject matter, like Rodeos, Publishing, Greek, etc. If there is a category division, find the category your title would fall under.

5. Disregard any first-word article in the title you're looking for. Articles like a, an or the are not used when alphabetizing titles in a card catalog.

6. Flip through the cards alphabetically until you find the selection you're looking for.

7. Write down the Dewey decimal number at the top of the card. This will help you find the book on the shelves.

8. Find the book shelf with the numerical number you've written down on your card. Skim the books on the shelf until you find the book matching the number from the card catalog.

Tips & Warnings

• Always ask a librarian for help if you get stuck.

References

• University of Illinois: Card Catalog